Full Answer Section

Assignments:

Assignment 1: The Scientific Method – Mystery at the Microscope

Scientists are like detectives, always on the hunt for answers!

In this activity, you’ll become a science sleuth and use the scientific method to solve a mystery.

What you’ll need:

• A partner (you can choose your partner or I can assign one)
• Access to the internet (optional, but helpful!)
• A curious mind!

Steps:

1. The Crime Scene: We’ve discovered an unknown substance under the microscope. Our goal is to identify this mysterious material!
2. Observation: Carefully observe the substance under the microscope. Describe its appearance, texture, and any other details you can see.
3. Form a Hypothesis: Based on your observations, propose a possible explanation for what the substance might be.
4. Test Your Hypothesis: Research online (if possible) or brainstorm with your partner to design an experiment to test your hypothesis. What can you do to learn more about the substance?
5. Record Your Findings: Document your experiment, including your observations and the results. Did your experiment support your hypothesis?
6. Conclusion: Based on your findings, what can you conclude about the unknown substance?

Grading Rubric:

• Observations (2 points): Detailed and accurate description of the unknown substance.
• Hypothesis (2 points): Clear and well-explained possible explanation for the substance.
• Experiment Design (2 points): Creative and appropriate experiment to test the hypothesis.
• Data Recording (2 points): Clear and organized documentation of the experiment and results.
• Conclusion (2 points): Well-supported conclusion based on the findings.

Assignment 2: Engineering Challenge – Building the Ultimate Bridge!

Calling all engineers!

In this challenge, you’ll put your creativity and problem-solving skills to the test by designing and building a bridge.

What you’ll need:

• Various building materials (cardboard, straws, popsicle sticks, paperclips, etc.)
• Ruler
• A space to build your bridge (desk, table)

Challenge:

Design and build a bridge that can span a specific distance (provided by the teacher) and hold the most weight (textbooks, pennies, etc.)

Things to Consider:

• Strength: How can you make your bridge strong enough to hold weight?
• Stability: How will you ensure your bridge is stable and doesn’t wobble?
• Creativity: Experiment with different designs and materials!

Presentation:

Once you’ve built your bridge, be prepared to present your design to the class. Explain your thought process, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them.

Grading Rubric:

• Design (3 points): Creativity and functionality of the bridge design.
• Construction (3 points): Use of materials and quality of construction.
• Strength (2 points): Weight-bearing capacity of the bridge.
• Stability (2 points): Bridge’s ability to stay upright under load.
• Presentation (2 points): Clear and informative explanation of the design process.

Group Project: The Amazing Adaptations Expo

Project Goal:

Work in small groups to research and create an informative presentation about animal adaptations.

Steps:

1. Group Formation: Students will be assigned to groups or can choose their own partners.
2. Choose an Animal: Each group will select a specific animal (approved by the teacher) to research.
3. Adaptation Exploration: Research the various adaptations your chosen animal has developed to survive in its environment. Adaptations can be physical (camouflage, claws), behavioral (hibernation, migration), or physiological (thick fur, keen eyesight).
4. Presentation Planning: Decide how you’ll present your findings. This can be a poster board display, a slideshow presentation (using Google Slides or similar), or even a short skit!
5. Creative Showcase: Get creative! Your presentation should be informative and engaging for your classmates. Use visuals, diagrams, and interesting facts to bring your chosen animal’s adaptations to life.
6. **Peer Review & Class